Casey sits vs. knuckleballer
Other than that and Polanco returning, the lineup is the same. The thinking on Leyland's part is that while Marcus Thames strikes out a lot against Wakefield (eight times in 11 at-bats, with the other three being hits), he has a chance to do some real damage if he makes contact. Of those three hits, one was a double and the other was a solo homer. Casey has never faced him.
- Granderson, CF
- Polanco, 2B
- Sheffield, DH
- Ordonez, RF
- Guillen, SS
- Rodriguez, C
- Monroe, LF
- Thames, 1B
- Inge, 3B
For anyone who asked, Bonderman is still on schedule to pitch Friday. He played catch Tuesday afternoon and felt fine.
If there is such a thing as "Tiger baseball," we saw it tonight. A mix of power and timely hitting, 6 of the 7 runs scored with two out, coupled with strong starting pitching and efficient bullpen work.
When Justin Verlander is on, there's no better pitcher in all of baseball. Rodney looked calm, cool, and collected, although I did note Leyland's quick visit after that infield high hopper put two men on. Fernando made some good pitches tonight. Leyland proved his genius by agreeing with me that Verlander should start the eighth inning (I'm kidding of course). You couldn't ask for more at this point, a seven plus start from JV.
When JD Drew hit that wall on Inge's homer, I had to go take some Motrin myself. That's really going to hurt tomorrow.
Marty, they've gotten your three wins on this trip, with two chances to make it four. That would be an excellent road trip.
Does anyone think Boston-Detroit would be a very entertaining playoff matchup?
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Yes.
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It's nice to see that they seem to have snapped themselves out of the funk they've been in for the past couple of days. I'll be attending Thursday's game in person - looking forward to it.
matt
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